Articles tagged with Amphibians
Researchers found that amphibian metamorphosis entails a direct cost, including weight loss and reduced energy intake, which varies by sex. The study uses the palmate newt as a model to shed light on the evolutionary mechanisms governing the persistence or loss of metamorphosis, particularly in the context of climate change.
Researchers found that connected habitats enhance the ability of amphibian skin microbiome to defend against diseases by increasing beneficial bacteria presence. This study highlights a critical link between environmental disturbance, microbial defenses, and disease dynamics.
Researchers found that connected natural habitats help maintain beneficial skin microbes that inhibit deadly fungal pathogens in tropical amphibians. Habitat fragmentation weakens these microbial defenses, leading to increased pathogen infection levels.
A new review reveals major blind spots in Bhutan's amphibian and reptile research, with most studies focusing on species records and ecology. The study highlights the need for deeper research on genetics, disease, physiology, and long-term conservation to strengthen conservation efforts.
Researchers found that specific amino acids in the TRPM8 protein of salamanders that prefer cooler environments lead to diminished cold sensitivity. This discovery provides insight into the mechanisms behind temperature-sensing channels in tailed amphibians.
Rising temperatures of just 1°C drastically increase the likelihood of malformation in Neotropical lizards. Thermal stress caused by climate change disrupts normal development, leading to severe consequences.
Parasites alter male calls, creating a complex pattern that can change how females evaluate potential partners. Females prefer lower-frequency calls, but also weigh the risk of parasite infection, making mate choice a nuanced decision.
Researchers found that Gracixalus weii treefrog's call is similar to a bird-like chirp of the Black-Breasted Thrush, highlighting the evolution of acoustic symbols in amphibians influenced by ecological interactions with birds. This phenomenon provides a reliable alternative to morphological or molecular diagnosis for cryptic species
The interim update to the State of the World's Migratory Species report warns that 49% of migratory species populations are declining, with 24% facing extinction, due to habitat loss and overexploitation. The report highlights the need for coordinated international action to address these threats and protect migratory species.
Fossils from the Lower Triassic of Western Australia confirm a cryptic marine temnospondyl community, showing that earliest sea monsters adapted to life in the sea and radiated rapidly into various ecological niches. The discovery also reveals worldwide dispersal of these ancient animals across supercontinents.
Temperature impacts the quality and speed of male frogs' mating calls, which are more attractive to females in warmer conditions. This study suggests that female frogs use these calls to gauge environmental suitability for reproduction.
A recent Illinois study found that nearly 8,500 online classified ads for exotic amphibians were posted between 2004 and 2024, representing 301 species from around the world. The researchers verified a dataset of these listings, revealing 44 species traded without official paperwork, sold at a 40% premium. This illicit trade poses sign...
The Japanese giant salamander's diet shifts from aquatic insects to large prey like fish and crabs as it grows, allowing it to reach the top of its ecosystem. This transition is accompanied by an increase in trophic position, enabling the species to become a superpredator.
The discovery sheds light on marine ecosystems' rapid recovery and complexification after the end-Permian mass extinction. The Spitsbergen fossil deposit reveals diverse marine reptiles, including archosauromorphs and ichthyosaurs, with some species reaching 5m in length.
A University of Houston biologist has received a $2.16 million federal grant to study how some coastal frogs survive in salty environments. The research could reveal how cells cope with salt stress and have implications for understanding the health risks of high-salt diets in humans.
Researchers have identified three new species of tree-dwelling toads from Africa that skip the tadpole phase and give birth to live toadlets. This rare reproductive strategy is found in less than 1% of frog species, making these toads exceptionally interesting.
Scientists suggest that managing pond conditions can tip the balance in favor of native species. Research found that longer hydroperiods, typically over 110 days, lead to larger and more stable populations.
A new study by Cornell University researchers found that tadpoles that lose their lungs through evolution never regain them, even when environmental change would favor it. This challenges the assumption that lost traits can easily reemerge.
Researchers created a high-resolution map of Panama showing the movement and intensity of Batrachochytrium dendrobatidis, a deadly fungal disease. The data reveals that higher elevations are more hospitable to the fungus, but rainy seasons bring outbreaks in lowlands.
Researchers at Kyoto University discovered that crested serpent eagles possess a unique genetic mutation allowing them to resist the toxins of invasive cane toads. The eagle's toxin resistance is attributed to the same amino acid sequence as the Siamese red-necked keelback snake.
In a groundbreaking discovery, researchers have identified three new species of frogs in the Cordillera de Huancabamba highlands. The study reveals that these secretive creatures possess unique characteristics, such as prominent tubercles on their bodies and adaptations to the harsh environment.
A new study from Goethe University confirms that climate change and extreme weather events are devastating amphibian diversity. Analysis of global weather data reveals a direct connection between increased heat waves, droughts, and declining salamander populations.
Researchers found that artificial water bodies, especially historic stone tanks, support a higher diversity of species compared to natural habitats. These structures serve as stable environments for vulnerable eggs and larvae, providing a lifeline for amphibian populations amidst climate change and land-use change.
A new blue Ranitomeya species has been discovered in the Amazon's Juruá River basin, featuring copper-colored legs. This finding represents one of only two novel Ranitomeya species identified in a decade.
Researchers found that captive-bred axolotls can survive in both artificial and restored Mexican wetlands. However, they may need specific temperature conditions to thrive, offering insights for amphibian reintroductions and translocations.
A mass mortality event occurred in Triassic Wyoming, where dozens of giant amphibians called metoposaurid temnospondyls died together on an ancient floodplain. The study provides a unique snapshot of a single population and doubles the known number of individuals of the species Buettnererpeton bakeri.
A team of researchers has rediscovered the elusive Alsodes vittatus frog species in Chile, providing critical ecological data and highlighting conservation concerns. The rediscovery is a significant milestone for South American herpetology, emphasizing the need to study and protect this rare species.
A new study by UNSW researchers predicts the heat tolerance of 60% of the world's amphibian species, revealing that 2% are already exposed to overheating in shaded terrestrial conditions. A 4°C global temperature increase could push 7.5% of species beyond their physiological limits.
The University of Texas at Arlington (UTA) has donated thousands of natural history books and journals to Ecuador's National Biodiversity Institute, expanding its research and education programs. The donation, valued at over 8,570 books, 2,000 journals, and 500 articles, will support the work of biodiversity specialists, students, and ...
A recent Hungarian study found that garden pond features such as age, area, aquatic vegetation, and shoreline vegetation influence the occurrence of animals like amphibians, odonates, and birds. The study highlights the importance of pond management practices to support biodiversity in urban areas.
Researchers warn of environmental risks posed by snakes and insects in imported ornamental plants, calling for improved regulations and sustainable practices. The study highlights the difficulty of monitoring and controlling pests due to high-volume trade, posing a threat to ecosystems and human health.
The University of Texas at Arlington's Amphibian and Reptile Diversity Research Center (ARDRC) has expanded its library with a donation of over 10,000 rare items, including books, scientific journals, and reports. This addition will provide scientists worldwide with access to a wealth of literature on reptiles and amphibians.
Researchers at ISTA and Columbia University developed a technique using adeno-associated viruses (AAVs) to track a frog's nervous system throughout its metamorphosis, shedding light on the neural circuit and behavior changes during this transition. The breakthrough can help usher amphibian neurobiology into a new era.
A Kennesaw State University researcher has received a National Science Foundation grant to study the evolution of salamanders' behavioral habits in urban streams. The study aims to broaden research participation at minority-serving universities and will provide undergraduate students with hands-on experience conducting field research.
New information and guidance on monitoring and managing ranaviruses are provided in the second edition of Ranaviruses: Emerging Pathogens of Ectothermic Vertebrates. Ranavirus infections have been confirmed in over 177 species, causing mass die-offs and affecting biodiversity.
A Simon Fraser University study ranks Canadian terrestrial vertebrates by their level of evolutionary distinctness, finding that amphibians and reptiles are the most distinct species. The spiny softshell turtle is the most evolutionarily distinct terrestrial animal in Canada.
Researchers have discovered a remarkably preserved fossil site in Massachusetts that provides a rare glimpse into terrestrial life from over 300 million years ago. The findings reveal a diverse ecosystem of early land-dwelling animals and plants, including some of the oldest known examples of their groups.
A University of Arizona study has found a consistent pattern: Animals with higher body temperatures are more likely to evolve into herbivores. This relationship holds true across major land vertebrate groups, and is linked to the unique digestive challenges posed by plant-based diets.
Researchers have created a detailed 3D atlas of the African clawed frog's development, revealing key changes during metamorphosis. The atlas uses X-ray microtomography to show the transformation from tadpole to mature adult frog.
A global database of animals with four feet has identified significant gaps in tetrapod knowledge, including biases in biodiversity data. Researchers used artificial intelligence to predict missing data and improve the accuracy of ecology, evolution, and conservation studies.
A study published in Nature has found that artificial heat shelters can significantly reduce chytrid infections in frogs, allowing them to co-exist with the deadly disease. The simple intervention uses readily available materials and can be easily scaled up for community involvement.
A study using crowd-sourced data from iNaturalist found that slugs and snails are more common in urban areas than other native species. In contrast, butterflies and moths were the least tolerant of urban environments. The analysis provides valuable insights for city planners to increase urban biodiversity.
Researchers have uncovered a 270-million-year-old ancient amphibian ancestor in the Smithsonian's collection, naming it Kermitops gratus in honor of Kermit the Frog. The fossilized skull possesses unique features that shed light on the origin of living frogs and other amphibians.
Scientists have scanned over 13,000 vertebrate specimens using CT technology, making them available for free online. The scans provide a detailed view of internal structures, allowing researchers to study specimens in ways previously impossible.
Researchers have developed a noninvasive method to quickly detect the deadly fungus Batrachochytrium salamandrivorans in shipments and captive settings. The new approach tests environmental DNA for Bsal DNA to assess the pathogen's prevalence, providing a way to make an essentially invisible pathogen visible.
A Hungarian study reveals that pond networks rely on spatial position for species diversity, with central connections hosting higher microorganism and plankton diversity. This research highlights the importance of connectivity in maintaining biodiversity in fragmented ecosystems like bomb crater ponds.
Researchers found that female Taricha newts produce higher levels of tetrodotoxin, a deadly neurotoxin, than males. This discovery suggests the toxin may serve as a signal for mate selection and survival.
Researchers at Nagoya University have discovered a unique healing mechanism in newts that could aid humans in recovering faster from tendon injuries. By understanding how newts regenerate damaged tendons without scar tissue, scientists hope to develop more effective treatments for human athletes.
A large USGS study assesses methylmercury in adult amphibians, finding it to be a toxic compound that bioaccumulates in animals as they feed. The study's results provide new methods and baseline data for assessing mercury risk in endangered species, including those listed under the Endangered Species Act.
A study from North Carolina State University tracked 16 rehabilitated turtles to monitor their long-term survival and health. The researchers found that turtles moved an average of 100 yards between observations, with some individuals traveling much farther than expected.
Researchers have found that caecilians, an elusive type of amphibian, transfer microbes from their skin and gut to their young during skin-feeding. This unique method of parental care provides nutrients and helps establish a healthy microbiome in juvenile caecilians.
Scientists will use AI-powered monitoring stations to track species populations and assess the effectiveness of agri-environment schemes in improving biodiversity. The study aims to demonstrate how different farming systems and practices affect species populations, providing crucial evidence for sustainable land management policies.
The Ngoc Linh Crocodile Newt is a newly discovered species of crocodile newt found in the Central Highlands of Vietnam. The species is considered Endangered due to its small population size and limited geographic range.
UK schoolchildren aged 7-11 drew mammals and birds most commonly, with reptiles and amphibians appearing less frequently. The study suggests children's perceptions of local wildlife are skewed towards mammals and birds, hinting at a wider problem of nature disconnect.
A biologist at Binghamton University has developed a new method to uncover the parent species of hybrid plants and animals. By examining genomic patterns within these hybrids, researchers can identify distinct ancestries and determine the order in which chromosomes were inherited from their progenitor species.
A trained detection dog can find great crested newts even through soil and at a distance, potentially aiding critical conservation efforts. The study, published in PLOS ONE, found the dog achieved an 87% success rate in detecting the species across various environmental conditions.
A study by Shinji Sugiura and Masakazu Hayashi found that bombardier beetles are better defended against pond frogs than assassin bugs. The researchers also showed that both insects benefit from mimetic interactions with the shared predator.
A review of scientific literature on reptiles between 1960 and 2021 found that 15% of articles focused on only ten species, with fewer than ten studies published on 90.5% of all species. The authors attribute this bias to factors such as habitat, size, danger of extinction, and proximity to research institutions.
A new species of stream frog from the Andes of Ecuador was named Hyloscirtus tolkien, created by one of their favorite writer, JRR Tolkien. The researchers found it in the pristine streams of the Río Negro-Sopladora National Park.
Glassfrogs have a unique adaptation to stay transparent, storing nearly all of their red blood cells in their livers with reflective guanine crystals. This allows them to avoid blood clots and live without the risks associated with aggregation of red blood cells.